The SMILE Services Estevan Parade remains a popular attraction in the community.
The parade was held on Friday afternoon, and served as the kickoff for three days of activities related to the Estevan Exhibition Association’s CCA Rodeo. The parade started at Westview School, and made its way through southwest Estevan and the city's downtown area. Its journey wrapped up at the Estevan Leisure Centre.
A total of 37 entries were received for the parade. There were some creative and well-decorated floats, according to SMILE Services manager Art Beselt, but others opted for walking the parade route. Classic vehicles and horse-and-rider tandems were also part of the event.
Sobey's won the awards for best interpretation of theme, which focused on Canada's 150th birthday, and best overall entry in the parade. Estevan Diversified Services had the best use of comedy in its float, and the Rural Municipality of Estevan was named the best out-of-town entry.
Beselt was pleased to see the number of children involved with the parade, and the amount of work and creativity that people put into their floats.
"There was a lot that went with the theme," said Beselt.
He was also happy to see the crowds that lined the parade route. The largest collection of spectators was in front of the Estevan Courthouse, but large numbers of people also gathered in other areas.
